This is a very good basic recipe, but you can't have shrimp without garlic! Saute 3-4 minced cloves in a little butter, cool, then add to the marinade - makes a world of difference. Also sub olive oil for the vegetable oil, and add a little garlic powder. Note that if you use the full 3 tablespoons of Emeril's Essence, it WILL be hot! 1 tablespoon for the faint-hearted gives it excellent flavor, and just a good bite, but doesn't "burn" your mouth. If you really want to get creative, you can add spices such as marjoram and basil, but you will have to increase your marinating time.

Reviewed On: Aug. 23, 2009

We've been making this recipe for years, except we call it Hamburger Stew. We leave out the rice, and put in only enough water to just barely cover the meat & veggies. Skip the salt, and instead add bouillon cubes, and any seasonings you would use for regular beef stew. (I like ground corriander and a bit of basil to change it up!) You can also throw in fresh mushrooms if you like them, or add a can or two of drained peas when the stew is almost done. Thicken the broth when you're ready to serve, and you can't beat it!

Reviewed On: Sep. 11, 2008